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The Lençóis Maranhenses National Park can be accessed mainly through three towns: Barreirinhas, Santo Amaro do Maranhão and Atins. Each of these towns offers different ways of accessing and exploring the park.
The Lençois Maranhenses National Park is one of Brazil’s most impressive and unique destinations, famous for its vast white sand dunes and freshwater lagoons that form during the rainy season.
The park is located in the state of Maranhão, 250 kilometres from the capital São Luís.
The only airport in the region is Barreirinhas Airport, which only receives charter flights from São Luís do Maranhão at a very high cost.
Therefore, the best airport for those wishing to visit the Lençóis Maranhenses is São Luís International Airport, which receives direct flights from various cities in Brazil.
Access to the Lençóis Maranhenses National Park
1. Barreirinhas
How to get there
- From São Luís: Barreirinhas is approximately 260 kilometres from São Luís, the capital of Maranhão. There are daily buses that make the journey, as well as vans and private cars. The journey takes around 4 to 5 hours.
- By Plane: There is also the option of panoramic flights that depart from São Luís and land in Barreirinhas, offering incredible aerial views of the park.
What to do
- Launch trip along the Preguiças River: Includes stops at Vassouras, Mandacaru and Caburé.
- Visit to Lagoas Azul and Bonita: 4×4 tours that take visitors to the most famous lagoons in the park.
2. Santo Amaro do Maranhão
How to get there
- From São Luís: Santo Amaro is about 240 kilometres from São Luís. The journey can be made by bus or 4×4 vehicle, as the last 36 kilometres are on a sandy road.
What to do
- Lagoa da Gaivota and Lagoa das Andorinhas: Santo Amaro offers access to some of the most beautiful lagoons in the park.
- Quadricycle Tours and Hiking: The region is less touristy than Barreirinhas, providing a quieter and more intimate experience.
3. Atins
How to get there
- From Barreirinhas: The most common way to get to Atins is by boat along the Preguiças River. Another option is to go by 4×4 vehicle.
What to do
- Kitesurfing: Atins is famous for its ideal conditions for kitesurfing.
- Visit to Lagoas Verde and Tropical: 4×4 or walking tours to explore less frequented lagoons.
Activities and Tours in the Park
1. 4×4 tours
- <4×4 vehicles are needed to explore the dunes and lagoons. Guided tours are offered from the three main towns, taking visitors to various lagoons and points of interest.
2. Hiking and Trails
- For the more adventurous, there are trekking options through the dunes, with local guides. One of the most popular trails is the Travessia dos Lençóis, which can last from 3 to 5 days.
3. Panoramic flights
- They offer a unique perspective of the dunes and lagoons. Panoramic flights can be hired in Barreirinhas.
4. Boat trips
- In addition to the Preguiças River trip, there are other boat trip options to explore the mangrove region and the secluded beaches.
Practical Tips
- Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit the park is between June and September, when the lagoons are full after the rainy season (from January to June).
- Clothing and Equipment: Wear light clothing, a hat, sunglasses and sun cream. Bring swimwear, a towel and comfortable shoes for walking on the sand.
- Money: Bring cash, as not all places accept cards, especially in the more remote areas.
- Local Guides: Hiring a local guide is highly recommended to ensure a safe and enriching experience. They know the area well and can offer valuable information about the local fauna, flora and culture.
The Lençóis Maranhenses National Park is a stunning destination that offers a unique combination of adventure, relaxation and contact with nature. Planning your visit with attention to detail, such as choosing the city of entry and the types of tours you want, will guarantee an unforgettable experience in this natural paradise in Brazil.
